Melbourn Village College students prepare for African trip

A group of young adventurers from Melbourn are hoping to leave their footprints in the plains of East Africa this summer.

Twenty two Year 11 students from Melbourn Village College will taking part in a World Challenge expedition to Ethiopia in July.

Accompanied by two teachers, the teenagers will be embarking on their adventure after completing their GCSEs.

But, before the adventure has even started, the students have had to undertake the challenge of raising £2,000 each for the trip.

Now, having raised the funds through a series of team and independent events, the youngsters are preparing to take on the gruelling trip.

Katherine Webb, 16, said: “I’ve never experienced anything other than European culture.

“I know there’s a lot more out there and I can’t wait to be part of such a different way of living.

“I’m sure it will completely change my perspective on life.”

Abbey Deadman, 16, said: “I can’t wait to meet new people, experience their way of life and make a difference.”

During the adventure, the students will get involved in a long-term project to improve sanitation for a local school.

Then, the youngsters will have the opportunity to see some spectacular sights as they trek around the Wenchi Basin and then witness some of the local wildlife during a visit to the Awash National Park.

A spokeswoman for the college said: “Independently responsible for their fundraising, a massive amount of £2,000 each, students have worked hard organising events to raise the money to enable them to go.

“They should all be very proud of themselves as we are at Melbourn Village College.”

The students’ experiences will be posted to the college website in September.